The Top 8 Home Projects with the Highest Return on Investment

If you’re considering home upgrades, one of the first questions that usually comes up is: “Will it actually add value?” After all, not every renovation is created equal. Some projects are purely cosmetic, while others deliver long-term financial returns through increased resale value, added functionality, or everyday savings.

Let’s take a look at the top 8 home projects with the best cost-to-value ratio in 2025, and why one of the smartest upgrades on the list is a standby generator.

Why Cost vs. Value Matters in Home Improvement

According to the latest Cost vs. Value report from JLC, some home improvements stand out as high-ROI investments, year after year. And it’s not always the flashiest remodels that pay off the most.

Every homeowner wants their space to feel personal, but when you’re putting serious money into a renovation, it’s smart to ask:

• How much of this cost can I recoup if I sell?
• Will this project improve daily life or just the look of the space?
• Does this protect my home or just polish it?

The best home upgrades add emotional and practical value, improving comfort, reducing future costs, and increasing resale potential. And when emergencies hit? Some of these upgrades can pay for themselves overnight.

A Closer Look at 8 Home Projects That Pay for Themselves

1. Garage Door Replacement

Average ROI: ~94%

Replacing an outdated or dented garage door with a modern, insulated model is one of the highest-return upgrades year after year. It improves curb appeal, energy efficiency, and security, all at a relatively low cost.

Pros:

• Boosts curb appeal instantly
• Affordable compared to major renovations

Cons:

• Primarily aesthetic, it doesn’t improve the living space

2. Steel Entry Door Replacement

Average ROI: ~88%

A new steel entry door enhances both security and curb appeal. It’s a relatively inexpensive upgrade that makes a strong first impression and improves energy efficiency.

Pros:

• Better insulation = energy savings
• Increases perceived home value

Cons:

• Style choices can feel limited compared to wood or fiberglass

3. Manufactured Stone Veneer

Average ROI: ~92%

Replacing a section of siding with manufactured stone veneer around the entry or front of the house adds character and luxury without the cost of real stone.

Pros:

• High-end look at a lower price
• Excellent curb appeal boost

Cons:

• Mostly cosmetic—not functional
• Requires proper installation to prevent moisture issues

4. Fiber-Cement Siding Replacement

Average ROI: ~87%

Fiber-cement siding is durable, weather-resistant, and long-lasting. It’s a favorite among homeowners looking to boost protection and resale value at once.

Pros:

• Resistant to rot, pests, and fire
• Long-lasting color retention

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than vinyl
• Labor-intensive installation

5. Minor Kitchen Remodels

Average ROI: ~85%

You don’t need a full gut job to improve your kitchen. Swapping out cabinet fronts, adding energy-efficient appliances, and updating lighting can significantly refresh your space without overspending.

Pros:

• Big impact on buyer interest
• Increases daily enjoyment and resale value

Cons:

• Costs can add up quickly
• ROI drops with luxury or custom features

6. Vinyl Siding Replacement

Average ROI: ~82%

Vinyl siding replacement remains a solid investment. It’s one of the more affordable ways to completely update a home’s exterior, making it look newer and more energy efficient.

Pros:

• Low maintenance
• Variety of color and texture options

Cons:

• May not appeal to buyers looking for premium materials

7. Backup Power Generator Installation

Average ROI: ~77% (per Cost vs. Value data)

A whole home generator might not be the first thing that comes to mind when upgrading your property, but it’s quickly becoming one of the smartest investments for Connecticut homeowners.

Why? Because when the power goes out during a nor’easter, blizzard, or summer storm, you risk losing hundreds (or thousands) of dollars in:

• Spoiled groceries
• Medication and medical device failures
• Basement flooding from non-working sump pumps
• Missed work due to internet and power loss

Installing a standby generator keeps your home running when the grid fails—heating, cooling, lights, fridge, internet, and all.

Even if it’s used only once or twice a year, the financial protection and peace of mind are unmatched. And many homeowners find that their generator pays for itself after just one prolonged outage.

Pros:

• Immediate protection and comfort
• Can add resale appeal in storm-prone areas
• Financing is available to make it more accessible
  

Cons:

• Upfront cost varies by fuel type and home size
• Needs regular maintenance (easily handled with service plans)

8. Wood Deck Addition

Average ROI: ~74%

A wood deck adds usable outdoor space and is a favorite for entertaining. While it doesn’t offer year-round value in colder climates, it’s still one of the most enjoyable upgrades for spring and summer living.

Pros:

• Expands functional living space
• Highly attractive to buyers

Cons:

• Requires seasonal maintenance
• Limited seasonal use in the Northeast

Factors to Consider That Can Influence ROI

ROI can vary depending on:

• Your local real estate market (demand for backup power is higher in storm-prone areas)
• Material and labor costs in your area
• The quality of installation, cutting corners often leads to lower returns
• How long you plan to stay in your home

If you’re improving your home for resale and to enjoy it in the meantime, the best projects strike a balance between usefulness, protection, and appeal.

Choosing Projects That Add Lasting Value

Upgrades like kitchens, exteriors, and backup power systems make your home smarter, safer, and more functional. Projects that reduce future repair costs or protect your home during emergencies often provide the most meaningful returns.

A whole home generator, for example, protects everything else you’ve invested in—your kitchen appliances, electronics, HVAC system, and even your basement.

So when you’re deciding what to tackle next, don’t just think about what looks nice. Think about what works harder for you.

Power Your Home’s Value with PE Home Generators

If you’re ready to protect your home while increasing its value, installing a standby generator is one of the smartest decisions you can make. Whether you’re concerned about storm season, remote work reliability, or protecting loved ones who depend on power-sensitive medical equipment, PE Home Generators has you covered.

We offer:

• Whole home generator solutions
• Trusted product options
• Professional installation and local service
• Flexible financing to fit your budget

Call today or request your free generator quote online and take the next step toward making your home safer, smarter, and more valuable.